The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) has reissued landing rights for Starlink in Indonesia. The satellite internet service had previously halted new customer additions.

Wayan Toni Supriyanto, Director General of Digital Infrastructure at Komdigi, stated that the permit now uses the E-Band frequency.

This frequency range includes 71–76 GHz and 81–86 GHz and is used by Starlink in satellite communication.

“It’s like we had a water tank that was full for a certain number of customers. They added another tank to sell to new customers so that performance isn’t affected,” said Wayan during an event at SMPK Penabur Gading Serpong, Tangerang, Monday (4/8/2025).

Wayan said the E-Band applies to around seven hubs already built in Indonesia. Starlink has paid the Frequency Usage Fees (BHP) because the frequency is part of its landing rights.

Komdigi Warns Starlink Against Selling Roaming Devices

Wayan also emphasized that Starlink Services Indonesia is not allowed to sell roaming devices, such as modems that can be used while moving.

This is part of the operational commitment required for the company to operate in Indonesia.

“We constantly monitor their commitments. For example, roaming devices are not allowed. Roaming means the device is placed in a car, and while the car moves, it provides Wi-Fi using Starlink. That’s not allowed, except on ships,” said Wayan.

Mobile Use Only Permitted on Ships

Wayan clarified that mobile use of Starlink is only permitted under specific maritime conditions.

“We allow it on ships as long as they move for seven days,” he said.

If the service is detected operating in moving vehicles on land, Komdigi will revoke Starlink’s landing right.

“If found, for example, operating inside a car, we will revoke the landing right in Indonesia. We will issue a warning and ask them to stop until they meet the requirements. It’s their obligation not to sell those,” said Wayan.

Starlink is only allowed to operate in static conditions within Indonesia. Its use is permitted in homes or areas that need internet connectivity without movement.

Starlink’s Market Role in Remote Areas Remains Important

The Business Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU) has conducted a review of Starlink’s entry into the retail market.

It is recommended that satellite internet service should be prioritized for frontier, outermost, and least developed regions (3T).

“We support rapid broadband penetration. So, Starlink will be needed in the smallest regions through market mechanisms,” Wayan said.

PHOTO: UNSPLASH

This article was created with AI assistance.